Former MLA K. Raghupati Bhat expresses discontent after expulsion from BJP

Team Udayavani, May 26, 2024, 4:31 PM IST

Former MLA and independent candidate for the Southwest Graduates’ constituency, K. Raghupati Bhat, has voiced his dissatisfaction following his expulsion from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Speaking to reporters at his home in Karamballi, Bhat disclosed that he learned about his expulsion through media reports, as he had not received any official notice from the party.

Bhat remarked, “Despite being a former MLA, I was not given any position in the party.  I will continue to work as a party activist. Earlier, Jagadish Shettar, who had left BJP and had caused embarrassment to the party rejoined the BJP within a year.  I will either win the election and return to the party or remain an ordinary worker.”

Reflecting on his expulsion, Bhat stated, “They may have expelled me, but I have never spoken ill of any party leader. I have only advocated for a proper system. Being expelled has caused me pain.”

“No action has been taken against the two MLAs who engaged in cross-voting during the Rajya Sabha elections. Similarly, those who worked against party candidates in the Legislative Assembly elections or provided financial support to defeat the party candidate have faced no disciplinary measures,” he noted.

He further highlighted a precedent from the 2004 Legislative Assembly elections in Udupi, where Yashpal Suvarna led efforts in support of an independent candidate and later joined the BJP without repercussions. “Now, I am contesting as per my will,” Bhat asserted.

Bhat questioned the stringent disciplinary measures imposed in the coastal regions by the BJP, asking if such harsh actions could be enforced in other places like Shivamogga, Koppal, and Bangalore.